Fremantle moves property format Grand Designs Australia from Foxtel to ABC

Grand Designs Australia with long-running host Peter Maddison

Fremantle Australia is moving successful property format Grand Designs to the ABC after more than a decade with pay TV operator Foxtel.

The ABC has coveted the Australian version of the series for some time to complement its long-held Grand Designs franchises from the UK original, hosted by Kevin McCloud, and New Zealand.

ABC director of entertainment and specialist, Jennifer Collins said, “Grand Designs is beloved by our ABC audiences. We are delighted to be working alongside the talented team at Fremantle Australia to showcase passionate Australian homeowners as they strive to create architectural wonders.”

Fremantle Australia is currently casting for the refreshed ABC series. Australian host of 12 years Peter Maddison will not be part of the ABC version.

Fremantle Australia, head of unscripted Josie Mason Campbell said: “We have an exceptional team of specialists working behind the scenes on this remarkable programme and together with the ABC we’ll continue to raise the bar each season.”

The ABC will provide more updates on Grand Designs Australia later this year.

Earlier in the year, Foxtel indicated that whilst Grand Designs Australia was an established top 10 viewing performer, it would not be commissioning a new series.